Peanut Crunch Salad

If you’re looking for a quick, tasty dish that brings together vibrant flavors and crunchy textures, then this Peanut Crunch Salad is just what you need! It’s one of my go-to recipes when I want something fresh and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Perfect for busy weeknights or a lively family gathering, this salad is as delightful to eat as it is to prepare. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why it has earned a special place in my recipe collection.

This Peanut Crunch Salad combines fresh greens with the rich flavor of peanuts and a zesty dressing that ties everything together. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that will brighten your day!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes to make, this salad is perfect for those evenings when time is short.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and protein, it’s a wholesome choice for a healthy dinner.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love the crunchy textures and peanuty goodness.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare it in advance for meal prep or potlucks; it stays fresh and delicious!
• Versatile Flavors: Customize it as you like—this salad can easily adapt to your taste preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for our Peanut Crunch Salad. These are easy to find at any grocery store and come together beautifully.

For the Salad

• 200 g kale (hard stems removed & finely chopped)
• 150 g edamame beans
• 1 carrot (grated)
• 1 small red onion (finely chopped)
• 1/4 red cabbage (finely chopped)
• 15 g coriander (finely chopped)
• 60 g roasted & salted peanuts (roughly chopped)

For the Dressing

• thumb-sized piece ginger (grated)
• 5 heaped tbsp smooth peanut butter
• 1 tbsp miso paste
• juice of 1 lime
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
• sea salt

Variations

The beauty of this Peanut Crunch Salad is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add more protein: Toss in some grilled chicken or tofu for an extra boost.
• Change up the greens: Swap kale for spinach or arugula if you prefer.
• Make it spicy: Add sliced jalapeños or more cayenne pepper if you’re craving heat.
• Include more veggies: Throw in bell peppers, cucumber, or snap peas for added crunch.

How to Make Peanut Crunch Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

To make the dressing, start by combining grated ginger with smooth peanut butter, miso paste, lime juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, cayenne pepper, 5 tablespoons of water, and a pinch of sea salt in a bowl. Whisk well until smooth. This step is essential because the dressing brings out all the flavors in the salad. If your dressing seems too thick, feel free to add a bit more water until it’s pourable yet still creamy.

Step 2: Mix the Salad Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine kale, edamame beans, grated carrot, finely chopped red onion and red cabbage, along with coriander and most of the chopped peanuts. Pour over your freshly made dressing and mix everything together thoroughly. This ensures every bite is bursting with flavor and crunch!

Step 3: Serve It Up

Once everything is well mixed, serve your Peanut Crunch Salad in bowls or on plates. To finish off this colorful dish, sprinkle the remaining peanuts on top. They add an irresistible crunch that makes each bite even more enjoyable. Enjoy your delightful creation!

Pro Tips for Making Peanut Crunch Salad

Making a delicious Peanut Crunch Salad is all about the little details, and I’m here to help you create the best version possible!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh kale, crisp vegetables, and high-quality peanuts will elevate your salad’s flavors and textures. They provide a vibrant crunch that makes each bite delightful.
• Adjust the dressing: Feel free to tweak the dressing’s sweetness or spice levels according to your taste preferences. Adding more lime juice can brighten the flavors, while an extra pinch of cayenne can add a kick!
• Massage the kale: To make your kale softer and more palatable, gently massage it with a sprinkle of sea salt before adding other ingredients. This technique helps break down the tough fibers and enhances its flavor.
• Make it ahead: If you’re prepping for meal prep or a gathering, you can make the salad a few hours in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until serving to maintain freshness.
• Add protein: For an extra boost of nutrition, consider adding grilled chicken or tofu to make this salad even more filling and satisfying.

How to Serve Peanut Crunch Salad

Presenting your Peanut Crunch Salad beautifully can make all the difference! Here are some ideas to enhance its appeal.

Garnishes

• Sesame seeds: A sprinkle of sesame seeds adds a nutty flavor and visual appeal.
• Chili flakes: For those who enjoy some heat, chili flakes can spice up your salad while providing a pop of color.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa: This fluffy grain is packed with protein and complements the crunchy salad perfectly. It also adds a nice texture contrast.
• Grilled vegetables: Seasonal grilled veggies like zucchini or bell peppers add a smoky flavor that pairs nicely with the peanutty goodness of the salad.
• Hummus with pita: A side of creamy hummus served with warm pita bread makes for a lovely dip to enjoy alongside your crunchy salad.
• Rice paper rolls: These fresh rolls filled with veggies and herbs provide a light and refreshing complement to your meal. Plus, they’re fun to eat!

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re well on your way to creating an unforgettable Peanut Crunch Salad experience! Enjoy every crunchy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Peanut Crunch Salad is an amazing option for meal prep! You can prepare it in advance, making it perfect for busy weekdays or gatherings. It keeps well in the fridge, and the flavors only get better as they mingle.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It’s best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
• Keep the dressing separate if you want to maintain the crunchiness of the vegetables.

Freezing

• While fresh salads generally don’t freeze well, you can freeze any leftover dressing in a small container or freezer bag.
• Thaw the dressing in the refrigerator overnight before using it again.

Reheating

• This salad is best enjoyed cold, but if you’d like to warm it up slightly, do so gently in a microwave for about 20-30 seconds.
• Avoid overheating to preserve the crunchiness of the ingredients.

FAQs

Got questions? Don’t worry; I’ve got answers! Here are some frequently asked questions about this delicious Peanut Crunch Salad.

Can I make Peanut Crunch Salad ahead of time?

Yes! This salad is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain the freshness of the veggies.

What can I substitute for peanuts in Peanut Crunch Salad?

If you’re allergic to peanuts or prefer not to use them, you can substitute with sunflower seeds or sliced almonds. Both options will provide a delightful crunch!

How long does Peanut Crunch Salad last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, Peanut Crunch Salad can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this delightful Peanut Crunch Salad! With its vibrant colors and flavors, it’s not just a treat for your taste buds but also a feast for your eyes. Whether you’re making it for yourself or sharing it with loved ones, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy every crunchy bite and feel free to share your experiences – happy cooking!